Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Rio |
| Generation | Rio IV Hatchback (YB, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2i (84 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 84 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 4000 rpm (87.03 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4LF |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.4 l (3.59 US qt | 2.99 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1045-1143 kg (2303.83 – 2519.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 427-525 kg (941.37 – 1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 325 l (11.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1103 l (38.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 910 kg (2006.21 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4065 mm (160.04 in.) |
| Width | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1993 mm (78.46 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1512-1518 mm (59.53 – 59.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1518-1524 mm (59.76 – 60 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 655 mm (25.79 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 256 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 203 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 88H; 195/55 R16 87H |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 6.0J x 16 |
The Kia Rio IV, launched in 2017 and receiving a significant facelift in 2020, represented a substantial step forward for Kia in the subcompact segment. The YB facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and improved safety features. The 1.2i 84 hp variant, with its naturally aspirated engine and five-speed manual transmission, was a core offering, particularly in Europe where smaller displacement engines are favored due to tax regulations and fuel costs. This version aimed to provide a balance between affordability, practicality, and reasonable fuel economy.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Rio variant is the Kia G4LF 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit, meaning it doesn’t rely on a turbocharger or supercharger for forced induction. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The G4LF engine is known for its simplicity and reliability. The five-speed manual transmission is a conventional setup, offering a direct and engaging driving experience. While not offering the rapid acceleration of turbocharged alternatives, the gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2i Rio is not a performance-oriented vehicle. With 84 horsepower and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration is modest. The 0-60 mph time of around 12.4 seconds reflects this. However, the engine is surprisingly willing and provides adequate power for everyday driving situations, particularly in urban environments. The five-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. The gear ratios are spaced to prioritize fuel efficiency, but also provide enough flexibility for overtaking maneuvers. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2i Rio typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. Base models included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, often denoted by names like ‘2’ or ‘3’, added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a reversing camera, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for different colors and patterns.
Chassis & Braking
The Rio IV utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a torsion beam axle at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing light and precise steering feel. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2i Rio was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable subcompact car. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and generous warranty. However, it was often criticized for its lack of power and relatively basic interior. Compared to the 1.0 T-GDi turbocharged version, the 1.2i offered less performance but was typically more affordable to purchase and maintain. The 1.0 T-GDi provided a more engaging driving experience but came with a higher price tag and potentially more complex maintenance requirements. Fuel economy was comparable between the two, with the 1.2i offering a slight advantage in some real-world driving scenarios.
Legacy
The Kia Rio IV 1.2i has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The G4LF engine is known for its longevity, and the simple mechanical design minimizes the risk of major failures. On the used car market, these Rios represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and economical vehicle. While not the most exciting car to drive, it offers a practical and dependable transportation solution. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs continue to make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
